Moving from Illinois to Massachusetts?

6 Best IL to MA Movers and Your Ultimate Moving Guide

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IL to MA Moving Specialists

Moving from Illinois to Massachusetts is not just a relocation; it's a journey into a new chapter of your life filled with exciting adventures. You're leaving behind the vast prairies and lively vibes of the Prairie State to embrace the rich history and academic excellence of the Bay State. Recognizing the significance of such a transition, we stress the importance of choosing trusted and reliable professional movers to ensure your journey is as smooth and worry-free as possible.

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Moving in the opposite direction? Here is our moving from Massachusetts to Illinois guide.

6 Best Illinois to Massachusetts Movers

These are the top recommended movers based on our unbiased & regularly updated ranking algorithm (NOT paid promotions)

#1
Paradise Moving & Storage Logo
Exceptional
claimed company icon

based on 1,118+ data points

Framingham, MA
Affordable insured local and long distance movers, Hourly Charges only with no hidden fees, Furniture wrapping See More
Authorized for Interstate Moves

(last checked 9/6/2024)

USDOT: 3619865 Verify

About Paradise Moving & Storage

Paradise Moving & Storage is a fully licensed and insured moving company based in Massachusetts, with locations in Framingham, Boston, a...Read More >>

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#2
Stairhopper Movers Logo
Exceptional

based on 9,261+ data points

Boston, MA
Local moves, Long distance moves, Commercial moves See More
Authorized for Interstate Moves

(last checked 9/5/2024)

USDOT: 1696867 Verify

About Stairhopper Movers

Since 2001, Stairhopper Movers has operated as a Boston-based local moving company that performs local and long-distance residential and com...Read More >>

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top 3 ranked movers in america 2023 image
top ranked movers in boston 2023 stairhopper movers image
#3
Happ Movers, Inc. Logo
Exceptional

based on 1,118+ data points

Glenview, IL
Professional Moving Services, Residential Moving, Commercial Moving See More
Authorized for Interstate Moves

(last checked 7/24/2023)

USDOT: 2970282 Verify

About Happ Movers, Inc.

Happ Movers, Inc. has provided residential and commercial moving services in Chicago’s North Shore area for more than half a century. Locate...Read More >>

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top 10 ranked movers in waukegan 2023 happ movers inc image
top 10 ranked movers in waukegan 2022 happ movers inc image
#4
6
Exceptional

based on 1,152+ data points

Chicago, IL
Residential Movers, Commercial Movers, Packing & Unpacking Services See More
Authorized for Interstate Moves

(last checked 9/6/2024)

USDOT: 3476069 Verify

About 606 Movers, Inc.

606 Movers, Inc. has been serving the Chicagoland area for over 12 years. This professional moving company offers quality, eco-friendly movi...Read More >>

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top 10 ranked movers in kankakee 2023 606 movers inc image
top 10 ranked movers in park forest 2022 606 movers inc image
#5
Move-tastic! Logo
Exceptional

based on 10,649+ data points

Chicago, IL
Full Moves, Truck Loading and Unloading, Interstate Moving Assistance See More
Authorized for Interstate Moves

(last checked 9/5/2024)

USDOT: 1906350 Verify

About Move-tastic!

What happens when two passionate triathletes decide to make extra income using their physical abilities? The result is an energetic moving c...Read More >>

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top 25 ranked movers in america 2023 image
top 3 ranked movers in chicago 2023 move tastic image
#6
Murphy Family Movers Logo
Exceptional

based on 1,271+ data points

St. Charles, IL
Local Moving, Interstate Moving, Professional Packing See More
Authorized for Interstate Moves

(last checked 9/5/2024)

USDOT: 2965334 Verify

About Murphy Family Movers

Murphy Family Movers has over 25 years of combined moving experience in Aurora, Illinois. This Aurora, IL mover promises the highest level o...Read More >>

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top 10 ranked movers in aurora 2023 murphy family movers image
top ranked movers in aurora 2022 murphy family movers image

Pros and Cons of Moving from Illinois to Massachusetts

Relocating from one state to another involves weighing both the benefits and drawbacks to make an informed decision. This guide aims to provide an honest reflection of the good and the bad aspects of relocating from Illinois to Massachusetts , highlighting key differences to help you envision your new life. By comparing the cons of Illinois with the pros of Massachusetts, and vice versa, you'll gain a clearer understanding of what to expect.

CONs
PROs
Illinois iconIllinois
  • Harsh winters
  • Higher crime rates
  • Flat landscape
  • Fiscal issues
Massachusetts iconMassachusetts
  • Better public transit
  • Richer cultural scene
  • Diverse geography
  • Stronger economy
Massachusetts iconMassachusetts
  • Higher cost of living
  • Higher taxes
  • Less dominant sports
  • Denser population
Illinois iconIllinois
  • Affordable housing
  • Lower taxes
  • Sports culture
  • Accessible nature

While the move from Illinois to Massachusetts brings about significant changes, it also opens up a new set of opportunities. In Massachusetts, you'll enjoy a richer cultural scene, including renowned institutions like the Museum of Fine Arts in Boston and vibrant neighborhood events such as those in Northampton and Cambridge. These areas are bustling with unique restaurants, such as Neptune Oyster in Boston for seafood lovers or the iconic Mike's Pastry for dessert enthusiasts. The diverse geography of Massachusetts means weekend trips can range from exploring the historical sights of Boston to relaxing in the natural beauty of the Berkshire Mountains or Cape Cod beaches. This change in landscape from Illinois' flatter terrain potentially means a more active, outdoor lifestyle, with scenic hikes and coastal visits becoming part of your regular weekend plans.

Food Scene Guide When Moving from Illinois to Massachusetts

When planning a move, the local cuisine is a key aspect of getting to know what life will be like in your new home. We'll explore the comparison of the local cuisine between Illinois & Massachusetts so you can get acquainted with the food scene awaiting you.

IllinoisMassachusetts

Most iconic local food item

Deep-dish pizzaClam chowder

Most popular meat dish

Italian Beef SandwichNew England Lobster Roll

Most popular street food item

Chicago-style hot dogFried Clams

Most popular vegan food

Vegan Deep-dish pizzaVegan Clam Chowder

Top 3 iconic restaurants that summarize the state

  • Alinea
  • Girl & The Goat
  • Lou Malnati's Pizzeria
  • Legal Sea Foods
  • Union Oyster House
  • Neptune Oyster

Fitness/Health Conscientiousness

78

Abundance of Food Trucks

67

Foodie Scene

89

Vegan Friendly

78

In Illinois, the deep-dish pizza reigns supreme, with places like Lou Malnati's Pizzeria being a must-visit for any newcomer. Massachusetts, on the other hand, boasts a rich seafood tradition, exemplified by the beloved clam chowder found at Legal Sea Foods. The foodie scene in both states is vibrant and diverse, offering an array of options for every taste. Whether you're strolling through the bustling streets of Chicago or exploring the historic neighborhoods of Boston, you'll discover an abundance of food trucks, vegan options, and restaurants that contribute to each state's unique culinary identity.

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Real Estate Facts to Know Before Moving from Illinois to Massachusetts

When considering a move, real estate stands out as a crucial aspect to examine. Understanding how Illinois and Massachusetts compare in terms of housing is vital for making informed decisions. From costs to architecture and lifestyle, this comparison aims to provide a comprehensive overview.

Moving between Illinois and Massachusetts, you'll find significant differences in real estate, particularly in housing costs and lifestyle. Massachusetts, with its higher median home prices and rent, reflects its robust job market and historical significance, offering dense, urban living conditions favorable for an urban lifestyle. In contrast, Illinois, especially outside of Chicago, tends to offer more spacious living at a more affordable price. Architectural styles also vary, with Illinois homes frequently featuring Prairie and Bungalow designs, while Massachusetts's history is mirrored in its Colonial and Cape Cod styles. These differences not only impact the cost of living but also the day-to-day lifestyle, offering a unique charm and set of amenities in each state.

Weather Considerations for Moving from Illinois to Massachusetts

When planning to move from Illinois to Massachusetts, understanding the weather differences between the two states is crucial. This comparison provides insights into what you can expect in terms of climate, helping you prepare for your relocation.

Summer icon
85/65

Illinois

80/60

Massachusetts

Average Summer High/Low (°F)

Winter icon
35/20

Illinois

37/22

Massachusetts

Average Winter High/Low (°F)

Rainfall icon
39

Illinois

47

Massachusetts

Annual Rainfall (Inches)

Snowfall icon
22

Illinois

51

Massachusetts

Annual Snowfall (Inches)

In transitioning from Illinois to Massachusetts, you'll encounter subtle but significant weather differences. While both states experience a range of temperatures, Massachusetts generally offers milder summers and slightly harsher winters, with more snowfall. This is crucial for planning your year-round clothing and potential activities. The higher annual rainfall in Massachusetts compared to Illinois means you might need to prepare for more wet days. Additionally, understanding the primary natural disasters and top seasonal allergies in each state helps in taking necessary precautions to safeguard your health and property.

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Money, Economy, and Job Market Considerations for Moving from Illinois to Massachusetts

When contemplating a move from one region to another, grasping the financial implications is crucial. This comparison is designed to illuminate the monetary landscape for those considering a transition from Illinois to Massachusetts, focusing on aspects like living costs, income, and taxes, to prepare you for what lies ahead.

Moving from Illinois to Massachusetts, you'll find distinct differences in financial landscapes. Massachusetts boasts a higher average household income, which is critical given its significantly higher cost of living index. While both states have similar state income taxes, the shift in property and sales taxes could impact your budgeting. Massachusetts's lower property tax rate seems enticing, but this advantage can be offset by the state's higher overall living expenses. Additionally, the economic fabric of each state is unique—Massachusetts is renowned for its booming technology and healthcare sectors, presenting new job opportunities that might align with your career goals.

Political & Religious Comparison between Illinois and Massachusetts

Relocating from one state to another involves adapting to new communities. This comparison provides a quick, at-a-glance snapshot of the political, and religious makeup of the residents, particularly focusing on the difference in politics between Illinois & Massachusetts . Understanding these dynamics will help you integrate seamlessly into your new environment.

IllinoisMassachusetts

Political Make-up

Lean DemocraticStrongly Democratic

Local Politics

Mixed urban and rural influencesPrimarily urban influence

Religion

Christian (varied denominations), followed by non-religious, Jewish, MuslimPrimarily Christian (Catholic, Protestant), followed by non-religious, Jewish, Buddhist

When considering a move from Illinois to Massachusetts, you'll find Massachusetts to have a more pronounced Democratic leaning, heavily influenced by its urban and educated population. Local politics in Massachusetts are predominantly shaped by urban concerns, which contrasts with Illinois' blend of urban and rural political issues. On the religious front, both states have a Christian majority but with differing denominational dominance; Massachusetts has a higher proportion of Catholics, whereas Illinois shows a broader variety of Christian denominations. This overview illuminates the cultural backdrop awaiting you, setting the stage for a smoother transition to your new home.

Education Guide When Moving from Illinois to Massachusetts

Moving to a new state involves several factors, including comparing educational opportunities for your children or for furthering your own education. To better understand what the comparisons are between school options in Illinois and Massachusetts, this guide will help you evaluate key aspects such as top-rated schools and districts in both states.

IllinoisMassachusetts

Where most Seniors go to college (top 3)

University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign
Northwestern University
University of Chicago
Harvard University
Massachusetts Institute of Technology
Boston University

Top 3 Elementary Schools

Avery Coonley School (Downers Grove)
South Park Elementary School (Deerfield)
Lincoln Elementary School (Springfield)
John D. Hardy Elementary School (Wellesley)
Chickering School (Dover)
Vinson-Owen Elementary School (Winchester)

Top 3 Middle Schools

Woodlawn Middle School (Long Grove)
Maple School (Northbrook)
Daniel Wright Junior High School (Lincolnshire)
William Diamond Middle School (Lexington)
Jonas Clarke Middle School (Lexington)
Wayland Middle School (Wayland)

Top 3 High Schools

Northside College Preparatory High School (Chicago)
Payton College Preparatory High School (Chicago)
Illinois Mathematics and Science Academy (Aurora)
Boston Latin School (Boston)
Lexington High School (Lexington)
Brookline High School (Brookline)

Top 3 private high schools

Lake Forest Academy (Lake Forest)
Francis W. Parker School (Chicago)
University of Chicago Laboratory Schools (Chicago)
Phillips Academy (Andover)
Groton School (Groton)
Milton Academy (Milton)

Top 3 private K-12 schools

University of Chicago Laboratory Schools (Chicago)
Francis W. Parker School (Chicago)
Lake Forest Academy (Lake Forest)
Phillips Academy (Andover)
Groton School (Groton)
Milton Academy (Milton)

Top 3 School Districts

New Trier Township High School District (Northfield)
Naperville Community Unit School District 203 (Naperville)
Community High School District 128 (Vernon Hills)
Lexington School District (Lexington)
Wellesley School District (Wellesley)
Newton Public Schools (Newton)

When considering a move from Illinois to Massachusetts, especially for families prioritizing education, Massachusetts offers numerous illustrious educational institutions, from renowned universities like Harvard University and the Massachusetts Institute of Technology to top-rated primary and secondary schools such as the Boston Latin School and the Lexington School District. Particularly noteworthy are the private schools in Massachusetts, such as Phillips Academy in Andover, which not only boast a rich history but also offer an extensive curriculum geared towards holistic education and preparation for top universities. Meanwhile, Illinois hosts acclaimed schools like the University of Chicago Laboratory Schools and the internationally recognized University of Illinois. For families and students prioritizing academic excellence, both states offer unique opportunities, but Massachusetts stands out for its concentration of prestigious educational institutions.

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